Penguins/NHL
Post-Game Buzz
Staal centers Malkin for a number of shifts
When Jordan Staal scored 29 goals in his rookie season, 7 of them were short-handed and 14 of them were at even strength playing on a line with Evgeni Malkin.
Tonight against the Flyers Staal saw significant time Malkin. This time around though, Staal played center.
The two connected for a 1st period goal as Malkin controlled the puck in the neutral zone and found Staal who used a power move to beat Ray Emery for his first goal of the season.
Indications prior to the season was that the coaching staff would look to get Staal and Malkin together in four-on-four situations.
Moving Staal with Malkin doesn’t appear to be a full time gig because the Penguins don’t have a viable 3rd line center until Max Talbot returns but look for Bylsma to use the two forwards together more often.
NHL to investigate Hartnell-Letang altercation
Did Scott Hartnell bite Kris Letang? The Pittsburgh Penguins have accused Flyers winger Scott Hartnell of biting Kris Letang. Letang received stitches following the game. The NHL will look into the matter.
Related posts:
Post-Game Notebook: Staal’s late goal gets the Penguins a point in 2-1 OT loss
Post-Morning Skate Buzz: Long-term, Bylsma still intends to unleash new attack with Malkin, Crosby & Staal
Post-Detroit Reactions: Talk of Staal seeing more time with Malkin continues
Post-Game: Staal steps up in 5-2 win over Canadiens
